Asset Management Vs. Wealth Management: Key Differences

For individuals with substantial wealth and assets, it is crucial to manage and make informed decisions to ensure their preservation. Services such as asset or wealth management aim to help individuals such as High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs) to optimize their assets and wealth in a way to meets their financial goals.

In this article, we will cover how both services function, what is the difference between Asset and Wealth management, and how you can manage your finances.

What is Asset Management?

Asset Management services are a professional management service that manages assets such as equities, bonds, mutual funds, and real estate to manage risk and increase returns for their clients.

Asset managers create personalised investment plans according to the financial goals and risk tolerance of each client. They are also required to monitor the performance of the assets to ensure that their proposed strategy aligns with market conditions and client targets.

What is Wealth Management?

HNIs and individuals with a substantial amount of wealth, often require assistance with managing their finances especially when it comes to investments. A wealth management service provides services such as investment management, tax planning, estate planning, retirement solutions, and insurance.

DBS Treasures provides specialised wealth management services that are backed by industry experts to assist clients with specialised wealth, insurance and mortgage solutions. Our wealth advisors create a plan according to your investment horizon, financial objectives, and risk tolerance.

Also Read: High-Net-Worth Individual (HNI) – Meaning, Types, and More

Differences Between Asset and Wealth Management

Both these services function differently, as they serve different purposes. To know the difference between asset management and wealth management, check the table below:

Aspect	Asset Management	Wealth Management
Scope	Investment-focused: managing and optimizing assets like stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and real estate.	Holistic approach: covers investments, tax planning, estate planning, retirement, insurance, and more.
Client Base	Individuals, corporates, institutions, and HNIs seeking professional investment management.	High-net-worth individuals and families with complex financial needs.
Services Offered	Portfolio construction, asset allocation, risk management, performance tracking.	Comprehensive financial planning, tax optimization, estate planning, succession planning, philanthropy.
Objectives	Maximize returns and manage investment risks.	Achieve long-term financial well-being and multi-generational wealth transfer.
Advisor’s Role	Portfolio manager or investment advisor.	Financial planner, wealth manager, and coordinator with other professionals.
Fee Structure	Percentage of assets under management (AUM), may include commissions or performance fees.	Fee-based (AUM or flat fee), may include additional charges for specialized services.
Customization	Standardized strategies based on risk-return profile.	Highly personalized, tailored to individual or family goals.

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Role of Financial Advisors in Asset vs Wealth Management

Financial advisors play a big role in both services, both types of financial services have different responsibilities for their advisors:

In asset management, the advisor’s main goal is to pick the right investments for you, keep track of how they are performing and adjust if required. Their goal is to assist you in growing your wealth while monitoring the risks.

In wealth management, the advisor guides you with regard to making financial decisions. They will understand your goals and help create a plan to achieve them. Besides investments, they will help you save on taxes, avoid financial risks and secure your finances for the long term.

A good financial manager will often demonstrate these three traits:

Providing unbiased, expert advice
Regularly reviewing and adjusting your financial plan
Offering access to specialized knowledge for complex financial matters

Regulations for Asset and Wealth Management Services

Both wealth and asset management services are regulated by SEBI, wealth managers must register themselves as Investment Advisers (RIAs) and follow strict qualifications and disclosure requirements. This helps in ensuring that both types of financial services focus on client-first advice and avoid any conflicts of interest.

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Conclusion

Both asset and wealth management services are important in assisting clients make sound financial decisions. One must evaluate their requirements and long-term goals when availing of these services. With the right advisor, you can get good returns, keep your money safe, and reach your financial goals.

DBS Treasures offers a premium savings account that offers seamless access to wealth solutions along with other lifestyle perks making it an ideal choice for wealth building.